252 kms from Bangalore and 1525 m above sea level lies
Madikeri, the district headquarters of Kodagu. Coorg or
Kodagu (originally called Kodaimalenadu) means 'dense forest
on steep hill'. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this
town has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush
forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange
groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what
make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.

Coorg is on the Western Ghats. Set amidst verdant valleys,
imposing mountains and teak wood forests, this is one of the
most beautiful hill stations you can visit. It lies on
Karnataka's southwestern end, covering an area of

4,102 sq km.The Kodagu district comprises different
communities - Kodava, Tulu, Gowda, Moplah out of which the
lasrgest is the Kodava community, both economically and
politically. The economy depends on agriculture, coffee
plantations, foretry and tourism.

There are many versions behind the origin of the name Kodagu.
According to the Puranas, Kodava is the redifned name of
Krodhadesa, meaning 'Land of Anger', said to have been
inhabited by the Kodava tribe. While for some, it is
believed to hve been named after the River Cauveri, where 'kod'
means 'give' and 'ava' means 'mother' - which means Cauvery
is the 'mother to the people'. Few believe the name
originated from the Kannada kudu which means 'dense forest'
on a steep hill. It is said that the history of Coorg dates
back to as early as 888 AD.

The kingdom was ruled by many dynasties, starting with
Gangas of Talakad, Kadambas, Cholas, Kongalvas, Changalvas,
Hoysalas and Nayakas. Information on its early history has
come primarily from the various inscriptions on stone and
copper plates of 9th - 10th century.The Haleri dynasty was
the last noteworthy dynasty to rule the whole of Kodagu. It
came into power around mid-16th century and was founded by a
young price from Ikkeri. It was the first dynasty in the
history of Kodagu, whch spanned 234 years and ruled the
entire region.While everyone talks about the tourism part of
Coorg, Karnataka.com salutes Coorg for entirely another
reason - a very important one. Coorgies in general opt for
the military service in India.

Places of Interestcoorg A friendly warning to all concerned: One trip to Coorg (Kodagu)
and itíll haunt you for the rest of your life. You might
leave Coorg, but Coorg will never leave you. Donít blame us
if you keep returning to it time and again. Thatís Coorg for
you- incomparable scenic beauty, lush green valleys, coffee
plantations, teak wood forests & majestic mountain ranges.
Add to that a strong, brave martial race of Coorgs (Kodavas)
that reveres tradition, has a distinct culture and lives
life to its fullest. Coorg is situated on the Western Ghats
of Karnataka in South India. For the adventurous at heart,
it is an absolute treat.

There are trekking, golfing and angling (Mahaseer too!)
options available. Religious trips abound on Hindu and
Buddhist circuits. Family getaways can be easily arranged.
You can also relax your body and mind with special Ayurvedic
massages. Coorg is also as trendy and happening as its close
neighbour Bangalore.

But the predominant entity here is nature at its best. Coorg
is like the dreamland of the philosopher. If youíre the type
who likes to mingle with nature, romance in the mountains,
feel the tingle of the cool and gentle breeze, watch leaves
flutter in dance-like movements and hear sounds of birds
fill the air, then Coorg is just the place for you.!

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport from Coorg is Mangalore
(135kms). A number of airlines connect the city with the
cities like Bangalore.

By Rail: Mysore is the most convenient railhead from
Coorg. The city is only less than 2Ĺ hours drive from Coorg
and is also connected to the rest of India with extensive
rail network. One can also use the rail stations in
Mangalore and Hassan to access to Coorg

By Road: there is a well-laid-out network of roads
connecting the city with important cities in Karnataka.
Cities like Mysore (120 kms), Hassan (115kms), Mangalore
(136kms) and Bangalore (256kms) are linked by roadways with
Coorg.